Churchill, Sikorski Denounce Nazi Cruelties Against Jews at London Meeting

November 1, 1942

LONDON (Oct. 30)

“The systematic cruelties to which the Jewish people, men, women and children, have been exposed under the Nazi regime are among the most terrible events of history, and have placed an indelible stain upon all who perpetrate and instigate them,” Prime Minister Winston Churchill declared last night in a message read to a meeting in Albert Hall called to protest the Nazi atrocities against the Jews in occupied Europe.

The Prime Minister’s message was read by the Archbishop of Canterbury who declared that “it is hard to resist the conclusion that there is a settled purpose to exterminate the Jewish people if it can be done.” The average Briton, the head of the Anglican Church stated, is not really aware of what the Nazis have done to the Jews.

Polish Premier Sikorski, who was one of the principal speakers, warned ” the German torturers” that they will not escape retribution for all the crimes they have committed. “As head of the Polish Government,” he continued.” I assure the Polish Jews that they will benefit fully from the blessing of victory of the United Nations in common and on equal terms with all Polish citizens.”

Jan Masaryk, Foreign Minister of the Czechoslovakian Republic, after citing the record of Nazi barbarities, said; “Because the Jews have been singled out more than the rest of us, I feel that their advice and cooperation should be solicited on a more intimate basis than heretofore. The voice of the Jewish people should be heard whenever some plans or some hopes are being discussed.”

A brief address also was made by Viscount Cecil of Chelwood. Messages of sympathy were received from Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia, President Fullgencio Batistay Zaldivar of Cuba, Dr. Eduard Benes, President of the Czechoslovak Government-in-Exile, Hubert Piorlot, Premier of the Belgian Government-in-Exile, Emmanuel Tsouderes, Premier of the Greek Government-in-Exile, and the Brazilian Ambassador to Britain.